The establishment of the NATO Multi-Corps Land Component Command to Mikkeli is drawing closer. The first officers will begin their work in Mikkeli this coming autumn.
In the next few years, 26 officers will arrive in Mikkeli ahead of reaching the final strength of around fifty. In addition to Finland, officers will initially come from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. A meeting between the City of Mikkeli, the Finnish Army, and NATO allies was held on Tuesday, 27 May. A press briefing was also organised at the City Hall on the same day. According to Mayor Janne Kinnunen, a new chapter is now being opened in the story of Mikkeli.
“We have discussed the services that Mikkeli can offer to military personnel and their families. It has been truly pleasant to work together. We are confident that our strong partnership will continue as we move towards new international cooperation.”
The arrival of the NATO Multi-Corps Land Component Command in Karkialampi, alongside the Finnish Army, means that Mikkeli is set to become an even more international city.
“NATO’s presence brings opportunities for both our residents and businesses. Internationalism opens doors. We are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for new arrivals and their families,” says Kinnunen.
Mikkeli has also been preparing on a practical level for the arrival of NATO personnel. NATO’s presence has played a significant role in boosting international and foreign-language communication and planning. The city has initiated the development of a bilingual educational path and early childhood education, started collaboration with local estate agents, and, among other things, produced an English-language brochure about Mikkeli specifically for NATO personnel.
According to the Commander of the Finnish Army, Lieutenant General Pasi Välimäki, the decision to place Multi-Corps Land Component Command in Finland, and specifically in Mikkeli, is a strong sign of trust.
“NATO recognises our expertise, capabilities, and deep understanding of the northern regions. Preparations have progressed well and with great care. Mikkeli will host carefully selected officers for demanding positions.”
In the near future, planning for ground operations in NATO’s northern areas will take place at Karkialampi. In times of war, Mikkeli would serve as the actual headquarters city for the land forces, as operations would not only be planned there but also directed from the site.
For local residents, NATO’s presence is not yet visible in everyday life, nor is it expected to be prominently so in the future. However, Commander Välimäki reveals that a new building will likely be constructed within the Karkialampi military area, along with a row of flagpoles bearing the flags of the nations whose troops are stationed in Mikkeli.
Photo: Mayor Kinnunen and Commander Välimäki.